Historic Reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral
The reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris is set to take place on December 7, 2024, marking a significant moment five years after the devastating fire that occurred on April 15, 2019. The fire led to extensive damage, including the destruction of the roof and the iconic spire. French President Emmanuel Macron had pledged to restore the cathedral within five years, and this event signifies the culmination of that promise.
The ceremony will commence at 7:40 p.m. with a speech from President Macron, followed by Archbishop Ulrich knocking three times on the cathedral's doors. In response, the Maîtrise de Notre-Dame de Paris choir will perform Psalm 121 a cappella, showcasing the rich tradition of choral music that has been part of the cathedral's history for nearly 850 years. This choir, consisting of about 150 young singers aged 6 to 28, specializes in a vast repertoire of sacred music, reflecting the cathedral's liturgical heritage.
Ceremony and Public Access
The reopening ceremony will be attended by approximately fifty heads of state and notable donors, emphasizing the cathedral's international significance. Following the formal events, a celebratory concert and sound and light show will take place, broadcasted live on France 2. The first public mass will be held on December 8 at 6:30 p.m., with all reservation slots reportedly sold out within minutes, indicating the immense public interest in this historic occasion.
As the world watches, Notre-Dame will once again become a center of faith, culture, and history, welcoming visitors and worshippers alike to experience its restored beauty.
